Vitamin E (INCI Nomenclature: Tocopherols)

The oldest and most well known of all antioxidants. Vitamin E was the first to be introduced to the market and was not only used as an antioxidant, but as a moisturizer. Like ROE, Vitamin E is oil soluble. Not only can vitamin E add to the creaminess of a blend it does provide protection. There are 2 types of vitamin E oil available: natural (d-tocopherol) and synthetic (dl-tocopherol). Only the natural vitamin E has antioxidant value. If you wish to use vitamin E for its protection qualities you can find NATURAL Vitamin E in capsules from health food stores.

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Skin care implications

As of the time of this writing, there were no studies directly comparing the skin effects of oral or topical alpha-tocopherol with a balanced mixture of tocopherols and tocotrienols. It is likely, however, that topical mixture of tocopherols and tocotrienols turns out to be more effective than alpha-tocopherol alone. When shopping for a vitamin E supplement, make sure to get the one with the balanced mixture of tocopherols and tocotrienols. Unfortunately, topical skin care products usually contain only alpha-tocopherol. However, if you can't find a cream containing mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols, or if it is too expensive, you can easily make one yourself.
From: smartskincare.com